Teeth grinding or bruxism plagues a lot of individuals, but most time without even knowing it. You may catch yourself grinding your jaw while at work or waking up with pain in the muscles of your jaw and a headache. If you find this common, worry not. Relief from the condition can be had easily and naturally. For individuals with bruxism in Coquitlam, know that relief and assistance are on hand. In this post, we will cover seven natural solutions that can help you stop or minimize teeth grinding before it leads to severe dental issues.

1. Warm Compresses at Night

Using a warm compress on your jaw at night will relax tight muscles and prevent grinding at night. The heat increases blood flow and relaxes the jaw tension. Try putting a warm towel on each side of your face for 10 minutes every night. This is one of the most suitable natural treatments for teeth grinding that can be easily done at home.

2. Stress Management Techniques

Stress is a major trigger for teeth grinding. Taking time each day to relax can help you avoid this unconscious habit. Simple activities like walking, listening to music, or practicing deep breathing can lower your stress levels. By managing your stress, you may be able to reduce grinding naturally. These remedies for bruxism can be a great addition to your daily routine.

3. Jaw Exercises

Gentle jaw stretches and massages can help relax the muscles responsible for grinding. Try slowly opening your mouth wide and holding it for a few seconds, or gently rubbing your jaw muscles with your fingertips in a circular motion. Doing this daily may reduce muscle tension and help prevent grinding, especially at night.

4. Use a Mouth Guard

While not entirely a natural remedy, wearing a night guard made of soft material can physically stop your teeth from grinding against each other. Many people with bruxism have found relief using a custom-fitted mouth guard from their dental clinic. It acts as a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, helping protect them from wear and tear.

5. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol

Both caffeine and alcohol can make teeth grinding worse. Caffeine can increase your stress and energy levels, even if you don’t feel it right away, while alcohol can affect your sleep cycle and muscle control. Cutting back on coffee, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages—especially before bed—can help reduce nighttime grinding.

6. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can lead to muscle cramps and tension, including in your jaw. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your muscles functioning properly and may prevent nighttime clenching. This simple habit can make a surprising difference in reducing your risk of grinding.

7. Get Regular Dental Checkups

Sometimes, teeth grinding can be caused by misaligned teeth or other dental problems. Seeing a dentist in Coquitlam regularly can help catch these issues early. A dental professional can look for signs of grinding, like worn teeth or jaw strain, and recommend treatments that are right for you. Regular checkups also allow your dentist to track any changes in your bite or jaw over time. Early detection means less damage and fewer complications down the road. Taking care of your teeth now can help prevent long-term problems and protect your smile for years to come.

Protect Your Smile with Help from Lincoln Dental

Teeth grinding can do more than just wear down your teeth — it can also affect your sleep and jaw health. If you’re struggling with bruxism or think you might be, don’t wait to get help. At Lincoln Dental Center, we care about your comfort and want to help you find the right solution for your smile. Whether you’re looking for advice, treatment, or a custom night guard, our friendly team is here to support you every step of the way.

Take the first step toward a healthier, more relaxed smile — book your appointment with Lincoln Dental today!